My Antarctica Trip Review: Cruising to Antarctica in a Wheelchair
I’m on a mission to visit all seven continents as a wheelchair user. I just got back from Antarctica and many people wanted to know how I visited this remote continent. This Antarctica trip review post will give you all you need to know about cruising to Antarctica in a wheelchair so you can plan your own trip.
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Is Antarctica Wheelchair Accessible?
Many people were amazed when they found out that I was able to go to Antarctica as a wheelchair user. A common question I was asked was, is Antarctica really wheelchair accessible? I’m happy to say that it is!
While actually putting a wheel on the continent may be difficult (the deep snowy and rocky terrain really didn’t look accessible), it is still possible to visit Antarctica as a wheelchair user. Your best bet is to take a cruise to Antarctica for the most accessible experience. I will discuss this more below, so keep reading.
Choosing a Cruise to Antarctica
When you start to look at your cruising options for Antarctica, it will be easy to get overwhelmed. Essentially, cruises to Antarctica break down into two different categories, expedition ships and larger cruise lines/ships.
Expedition Ships
Expedition ships allow passengers to go ashore while in Antarctica through the use of zodiac type boats. These ships are smaller and typically carry a couple hundred passengers. They are also not designed for wheelchair users.
However, I have heard some accounts from fellow wheelchair users that they were able to travel to Antarctica on one of the brands of expedition ships so it may be possible depending on your abilities or needs. Make sure to contact the cruise line before booking to see if they can accommodate you.
If you really want to say you were physically on the continent of Antarctica, expedition ships may allow you to do this. Just know that this luxury comes at a steep price. For these smaller cruises, prices start at around $10,000 per person.
Bigger Cruise Lines
Princess and Holland America are the brands that fall into the bigger cruise line category. These cruises are more affordable with prices ranging between $2-3,000 per person. Price often depends on the length of the cruise (which ranges from 16-22 days).
One benefit of choosing a bigger cruise line is the accessibility factor. These ships are designed for wheelchair users and people with limited mobility. The other positive thing about these cruises is that they often combine the trip to Antarctica with ports in South America. The number and location of the ports may vary according to the cruise line and itinerary.
My cruise with Holland America also had stops in Puerto Montt, Puerto Chacabucco, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, the Falkland Islands, Puerto Madryn, Punta del Este, and Montevideo. I was able to see parts of Chile, Uruguay, and Argentina during my trip.
To find the right itinerary for you, make sure to head to princess.com and hollandamerica.com to see what is currently available. For more information about wheelchair accessible cruising make sure to read my posts on cruising.
Why I Chose to Cruise to Antarctica with Holland America
After looking at all my Antarctica cruise options, I decided to sail with Holland America for a couple of reasons. First, their itinerary would mean that I got to see some of South America during my trip as well. I was really excited to see the Patagonia region.
Second, Holland America advertised having a wheelchair accessible tendering system. Since some of the South America ports were tender ports, I wanted every opportunity to see as much of the area as possible and felt that the accessible tender system would allow me to do just that.
Lastly, I had sailed with Holland America once before and had a good experience, so I was eager to sail with them again.
Is Antarctica Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, yes! Antarctica will leave you speechless. It is so incredible to see giant icebergs, penguins, seals, whales, and to experience the quietness of the continent. It is one of the places that makes you feel small in this big world of ours and reminds you that mother nature is always in charge.
Additionally, if you are like me and on a mission to visit all seven continents, then coming to Antarctica is a must. It has so much to offer, I can almost promise you that you won’t regret this once in a lifetime adventure. You can read more reasons to visit Antarctica in my other post.
Antarctica Trip Review: My Experience on Holland America’s Oosterdam
Overall, my experience sailing on Holland America’s Oosterdam was good. The biggest issue I had was that I was expecting to be able to tender and that did not happen (more on that below). Had the cruise line beforehand given me more realistic expectations, I would’ve been more prepared and not so disappointed.
Below I’ll go into more detail about my experience on the ship in popular categories so you can get an idea of what my experience was like.
Accessibility on the Ship
Generally, the accessibility on the ship was very good (with the exception of the tender system). There were accessible pathways throughout and ramps so that I could go out on the deck for the scenic sailings.
The bow of the ship was not accessible due to a narrow doorway and a step to get in and out of the bow area. However, the bow really isn’t the best place to be for wheelchair users anyway. There are solid walls which block the view, and it is very crowded with people pushing to get right up to the railing.
I had magnificent views from the accessible deck and didn’t feel like I missed anything. The rails had openings so that I could see around them, and the deck was covered so it was somewhat sheltered from the weather.
Accessibility at the Pool
Additionally, both the pool and hot tubs had lifts next to them so that they could be easily accessed. The lido deck where they are located was also covered by a retractable roof to help keep the area warmer. On nice days, the glass roof was opened.
Areas that Could Be More Accessible
The only thing that I felt could’ve been improved in terms of accessibility was seating in the main theater. There were no designated wheelchair spots. Some areas made it possible that I could pull up along the side of the seats on the main floor, but often the view was obstructed.
There was seating on the second level for people who could not climb the steps, but again the view was very obstructed and there were no spaces for wheelchair users.
Food
The Oosterdam has two complimentary restaurants as well as two specialty restaurants that require an additional fee. I did not eat at the specialty restaurants during my trip as the other free ones had plenty of choices. The menus always had pasta, chicken, steak, and a seafood option.
The pasta choices seemed a little repetitive but overall, the food was good. I definitely did not go hungry. If I were to compare the food on Holland America with some of the other cruise lines I’ve sailed with, I’d say it’s on par with Royal Caribbean but that the food on Princess has been my favorite thus far.
Lectures
One of the highlights of the cruise (other than the scenery) was learning more about Antarctica. Holland America had two expert scientists onboard and they provided several lectures about the landscape we were seeing, the animals in the area, and what it was like to live and work on Antarctica. In fact, one of the scientists had lived in Antarctica for a 2-year stretch!
They were extremely knowledgeable and were available for questions many times throughout the cruise. If you decide to take a cruise to Antarctica, make sure to attend these awesome lectures!
Entertainment
One of the features Holland America provides is its music walk. This consists of three different music venues on the same floor which offer a variety of styles of music to enjoy. Venues can vary by ship but typically include the Billboard, Rolling Stones Music Lounge, and the Lincoln Center Stage. The Billboard has dueling pianos that play the top hits in a variety of genres, while Lincoln Center tends to offer more classical music, and Rolling Stones is a rock venue.
I personally loved going to the Billboard Lounge and went almost every night. Megan and Gabe were the performers, and they were awesome. If you are lucky enough to have them on your ship, make sure to check them out!
In addition to the music venues, the main stage also had nightly performances (usually two shows at 7 and 9 pm). You could expect to see magicians, vocalists, instrumentalists, the Step One Dance Troupe, and the BBC Earth series. This series combined clips from the BBC show with live music and was very entertaining. Overall, there wasn’t a show that I didn’t like at the main stage!
I have to say, however, that one of the highlights of the main stage shows was when Pampas de los Gauchos performed. This three-person dance team performed the Argentine Tango as well as Malambo. They were incredible and very entertaining.
Tendering
Tenders are small boats that the ship uses when they cannot dock and have to anchor offshore. These tenders then transport passengers from the ship to the shore so they can visit the port, go on tours, or explore on their own.
As I mentioned above, Holland America claimed to have a wheelchair accessible tender and is one of the reasons I chose them for this cruise. However, the tender is not fully wheelchair accessible. It is true that they have an elevator that will take you down to the tender platform, but unfortunately this is where the accessibility ends.
Once on the tender platform there is a gap between the tender and the platform. There are no ramps available to bridge this gap so unless you have some mobility you will need to have someone help you navigate this area to board the tender. Additionally, there can be a height difference between the tender and the platform which adds to the difficulty.
Sometimes there will be steps in place (which have no railing) that you will need to be able to climb before crossing the gap to the tender. Likewise, there can be steps or steep ramps on shore that you will have to use to get off the dock and into town.
Can Crew Assist with Tendering?
Crew may or may not assist you in getting on or off the tender. Each cruise line has a rule of how much the crew is allowed to lift (which can range anywhere between 50-100 lbs.). When I initially tried to tender, they told me that they could not lift, however later in the cruise they assisted me.
Was I Able to Tender?
Yes and no. There were some ports I could not tender in due to steps. Others I managed to be able to tender due to the strength and significant help from my travel companion. When the crew saw her helping me, they offered to assist as well. It typically took 3-4 people (which included my companion) to lift me in my wheelchair over the gap between the dock and the tender boat.
As a result of this misinformation, I missed a couple of ports during my cruise and many of the private tours I had booked in advance (because I was initially told I could not tender and cancelled them so I could try to get a refund).
Since then, Holland America has attempted to make things right by offering to reimburse me for the days I could not go ashore and refund any portion of my private tours that the company would not repay me for my missed tours. They also sent me flowers while onboard and gave me a gift card to the spa.
Crossing the Drake’s Passage
There are two nicknames for Drake’s Passage, the Drake Shake and the Drake Lake. This is because the waters here can be notoriously rough or very calm. This is where three bodies of water meet, the Pacific, Atlantic, and Southern Oceans.
Crossing this passage happens twice during the trip, on the way to Antarctica and on the way back. It is said that when you’re in Punta Arenas that if you touch the foot on the statue of Magellen, it will bring you good luck and calmer waters for Drake’s Passage. While steps prevented me from touching the foot, my travel companion touched it twice (once for each of us).
I definitely felt the motion of the ocean but was told by crew members that this was nothing compared to what it could be. On the way back from Antarctica the seas were even calmer. Now, I can’t say that the superstition of touching the foot on a statue works, but it sure didn’t hurt!
Antarctica Itinerary
Sailing with Holland America allowed me to spend 5 days in Antarctica. During this time, I got to visit several bays and islands along the Antarctic Peninsula. The ship sailed around Deception Island, into both the Lemaire and Neumayer Channels, into Paradise and Neko Harbors, along the Errera Channel, into Wilhelmina and Charlotte Bays and passed by Elephant Island.
Paradise and Neko Harbors are where I saw the most wildlife, but honestly penguins and whales were present throughout my time in Antarctica.
What it Was Like in Antarctica
Visiting Antarctica as a wheelchair user is sort of hard to describe. It’s a continent that leaves you speechless and pictures can’t do it justice. I will do my best to describe what it was like to be in Antarctica and include pictures so you can get a taste of the experience.
The Scenery
I didn’t realize how mountainous Antarctica is! There are plenty of mountains that have glaciers coming down them or are surrounded by ice. You may not be able to tell from my photos because of the clouds, but the mountains in Antarctica average 10,000 feet tall!
You will also see plenty of icebergs. These large chunks of ice have broken off from the glaciers and now float in the waters surrounding Antarctica. Many are bigger than the one that sank the Titanic.
The other thing that you will notice when in Antarctica (which cannot be captured in photos) is the clear and utter silence. The ship must go very slowly through the waters, so you barely even hear that.
The silence is not spooky but rather incredibly peaceful. It’s as if you are suspended for a moment in time and surrounded by immense beauty that God and Mother Nature has created. When out on deck, everyone is mesmerized, and they dare only to whisper as they comment on the scenery around them.
The Animals I Saw
While in Antarctica you will have the opportunity to see four different types of penguins, several species of seals, many types of birds, and a variety of whales. Each opportunity to spot an animal is exciting and special.
I was very lucky to see a wide variety of animals during my trip. The first animal I saw were the Chin Strap Penguins on Deception Island. Next, were the Gentoo Penguins. Several times throughout the trip, Humpback Whales came close to the ship and provided a fun show for the passengers. I also saw a distant seal (not sure what type).
Penguins Swimming 
Penguin getting ready to jump out of the water
Travel Tip: Make sure to bring a good pair of binoculars as wildlife can often be far away. Penguins especially. I have a good zoom on my camera and that’s how I was able to capture some of these photos.
Finally, I also saw Orca Whales. This was my first time seeing them in the wild and it was truly special. They were by the ship briefly, but it was so exciting to witness them in their natural habitat.
Later on in the trip (when the ship docked at Puerto Madryn Argentina) I was also able to get an up-close look at the Magellanic Penguins. At this same port, I also saw Elephant Seals and Sea Lions.
What the Weather Was Like
When I visited Antarctica in January, it was their summer. Temperatures averaged in the low 30’s (Fahrenheit). As you can see from my pictures, it was often cloudy and overcast. Some days it even snowed.
Weather changes very quickly in Antarctica so you could have sunny skies one moment and snow and clouds the next. Be prepared for the weather and pack accordingly (more on that below).
Antarctica Packing List
For a successful trip to Antarctica, you want to make sure you have the right clothes and equipment. Here are the items that I personally found essential for my trip.
- Hand Warmer
When my hands get cold, they don’t function. Although I wear gloves, my hands still get cold and even numb. To help combat this loss of function, I use a rechargeable hand warmer that has made a huge difference. This is the one that I use. - Wheelchair Cozy
Similar to my hands, when my legs get cold, they become temporarily paralyzed. It is also really uncomfortable. I found this wheelchair cozy and it worked really well to help keep me warm while in Antarctica. You can also read my comparison on wheelchair cozys vs wheelchair lap blankets to decide which is right for you. - Binoculars
Wildlife can look like little specks to the naked eye or can be missed completely. Make sure to have a good pair of binoculars, like this one, to help you scan the horizon and better see any animals that are around. - A Good Camera
If you are making an investment to have an amazing trip to Antarctica, don’t rely on your cell phone to take photos. The problem with phone cameras is their limited capacity to zoom in on a subject. This is the camera I used to take all the pictures you see in this post. I like it because it’s lightweight and easy to use yet takes really good pictures. Additionally, there are plenty of options to make photography for disabled individuals easier.
- Layers
As mentioned before, the weather changes quickly in Antarctica. By packing lots of layers you can be prepared no matter what the temperatures are. Make sure to include a moisture wicking layer, fleece, and a water and wind proof outer layer. - Wool Hat, Scarf, Socks, and Gloves
Keep your extremities warm with wool. It’s also wise to take extra gloves and socks so if they get wet you have a spare pair.
Antarctica Trip Review: Would I Go to Antarctica Again?
In a heartbeat! While the weather did not always cooperate, the scenery and wildlife were unforgettable. While I have only visited Antarctica once (so far) I have a feeling that each trip there can be vastly different and equally as special. I would love to go back and experience this incredible place again in the future.
5 Tips for Traveling and Cruising to Antarctica as a Wheelchair User
1. Book Your Cruise Early
Wheelchair accessible cruise cabins sell out quickly. This is especially true for popular itineraries such as cruising to Antarctica. To ensure you get a cabin that will meet your needs, book as early as possible. Itineraries are usually released 18 months to 2 years before departure.
Check out my post on the most affordable Antarctica cruises to see what itineraries won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
2. Splurge on a Balcony if Possible
There is so much to see on an Antarctica cruise. To get the most out of your trip, consider splurging on a balcony cabin if it’s within your budget and they are available.
When I sailed, I had an inside cabin (because it was literally the last accessible cabin available on the ship). However, I would’ve loved to have the option of a balcony cabin so I could enjoy even more of the scenery.
If a balcony cabin is not within your budget, consider booking an ocean view cabin for a similar experience.
3. Be Prepared for Lots of Daylight
Since Antarctica is at the end of the world, it is similar to the midnight sun phenomena that occurs in Norway and in the Arctic Circle. The sun never actually fully set while I was in Antarctica. There was an hour or two of twilight, but never complete darkness.
If you have difficulty sleeping without darkness, consider taking a sleep mask to help block the light.
4. Book Excursions as Soon as They are Available
If your Antarctica cruise combines the continent with stops in South America, make sure to book your excursions as soon as they become available. Accessible excursions are extremely limited and fully adapted vehicles will be in short supply.
If penguins are on your bucket list, be aware that penguin tours will sell out fast. Depending on your abilities (not all penguin tours are fully accessible), plan to book multiple penguin tours in various ports to ensure you get a chance to see these adorable creatures up-close. Ports can often get cancelled due to the weather so ensuring you have more than one penguin tour gives you better odds at seeing them.
Contact the cruise line to see what accessible excursions they may offer. If none are available, look for local operators that may be able to accommodate you. I used a company called Patagonia Shore Ex to book my private tours. They can arrange vehicles for you to transfer to (if you are able to do that) and sometimes they have access to wheelchair accessible vans.
5. Be Prepared for Wildlife at Any Time
Wildlife do not have set schedules. They can be spotted at any time during your Antarctica cruise. The best way to see the animals is by going outside to the deck (which will be cold). Therefore, it’s important to always be prepared to rush out when the captain announces a sighting.
I always had my camera with me along with my coat and gloves. I wanted to be ready to go in an instant if necessary. This plan paid off several times and I was able to rush out and get some great pictures.
Antarctica Trip Review: Final Thoughts
Antarctica is an awe-inspiring place to visit with each journey being unique. While it is a trip for those with an adventurous spirit, the reward is getting to witness something that few people ever will. I truly hope that my Antarctica trip review has inspired you to travel to this continent and helped provide the necessary information for you to plan your own wheelchair accessible trip there.
